DOH- Environmental Health Services steadfast with its enforcements

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Environmental Health Services of the Department of Health recently issued a strong warning on its official Facebook page to both businesses and the public. This warning addresses explicitly those who appeal to government leaders when their food establishments are closed due to unsanitary conditions. 

“Please stop contacting government leaders, clergy, sponsors, or any other officials to persuade us against closing your business. 

“We have issued warnings and provided ample notice for you to correct discrepancies aimed at preventing food poisoning; however, your failure to take necessary actions has led to your closure to avert potential food borne illness or even death,” stated the public post.

 Meanwhile, the Environmental Health Services Division is diligently enforcing a comprehensive set of health and food safety regulations, prioritizing the well-being of the community. 

Last Wednesday, Canton Mart, located in Leone, was shut down due to severe unhygienic conditions. Inspectors from the Department of Health (DOH) discovered significant evidence of cross-contamination involving various meat products, posing a serious risk to public health.

In a separate case, Taofinuu Catering Services in Tafuna was also closed. Inspectors found that this vendor was illegally employing minors who lacked proper health cards to sell food items. This business had previously received warnings regarding the illegality of this practice, underscoring the importance of compliance with health regulations to ensure the safety of food served to the community.

Violations were also reported at the Meat Packing Room of Faleniu Mart. This facility was closed after it was found that meat was being repacked without the necessary approved business license or a valid health permit. Additionally, the room itself had not been properly approved for meat processing, raising serious concerns about food safety standards.

This proactive initiative involves closing establishments that fail to adhere to essential compliance standards.

Skilled inspectors conduct meticulous evaluations of a wide range of facilities — including restaurants, food trucks, grocery stores, and catering services — scrutinizing every aspect of operations from food storage and preparation to hygiene practices.

Any identified violations, whether related to improper food handling or unsanitary conditions, are addressed swiftly. By holding these businesses accountable, the division aims to safeguard public health and foster a secure and pleasant dining experience for all residents.

The businesses that were closed last week have successfully reopened after addressing the issues identified in their follow-up inspections. These establishments include Tony Ocean Mart in Nu’uuli, Nan Mart in Vailoa, Taputimu Mart in Taputimu, and TMJ Mart Laundromat in Nuuuli, demonstrating their commitment to adhering to health and safety regulations.